Hey guys,
Norm's wife is from the same town in Nebraska as I am. I learned this when I sent David Saunders a Topps candy box flat that Norm's artwork appeared on, so he could have it for his family archives. Apparently, when David was growing up, the Saunders family would visit that Nebraska town for a time every year.
Beyond that, when Norm retired, he spent his last years living in my hometown and was buried there after his death. As a Wacky Packages fan, it's odd to think I might have seen him during my late teens, but only recognized him as a stranger, an old gentleman I did not know, and not the creator of so many of my favorie childhood stickers. Someone who I would have certainly wanted to speak to.
I know a lot of music and literature fans will visit the resting place of their idols. I was considering doing the same, with regards to Norm. He is buried in my hometown, and I visit every summer. I always endeavor to be respectful, but would it be morbid to visit Norm's tombstone? Or take a photo? Is that taking fascination with an artist too far?